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Dating Safely 101: Preparation

This is a 3-part blog series on dating safely. We invite you to read the blogs on preparing for the date; during the date; and after the date and provide your feedback by posting a comment below the article. If you’d like to see a particular topic on the blog, feel free to suggest one to us!

Dating Safely 101: Preparation

Dating involves trial and error, and in the game of love there are sometimes more fumbles than successes. But getting yourself out of your comfort zone can help you meet some incredible people. Thankfully, you can also take steps before, during, and after your date to help you have the best experience possible.

Peter Bernik

You’ve texted your friends. You’ve planned your outfit. You’ve shaved. What else can you do to ensure your date goes off without a hitch? Scroll through your date’s Instagram for an hour? Actually… some research might be a good idea!

Your safety is important! To set yourself up for success, it’s important to take time to put precautions in place. Consider the following when you plan that dream date:

Location, Location, Location

Set up the date somewhere public and easy to get to. Choose a location you’re comfortable in and meet early enough that plenty of people will be around.

Update others on your whereabouts

Always let someone know where you are, when you are going, who you are going with, how they can reach you, and how long you will be away.

Check in

Have a friend send a check-in text; or, call at a predetermined time in case you need an excuse to leave

There are electronic solutions such as “Chelsea Handler: Gotta Go” or eHarmony’s “Bad Date Rescue” (search for these on your app store). These have the ability to send a fake phone call to you.

Do your research

Google your date and browse your date’s social media profiles (if they have them). It’s important to gather as much information as you can, especially when meeting a stranger.

You’re welcome for the excuse to Google your date. Safety isn’t the only thing to keep in mind, but it is an important consideration! Possibly more important than what shirt you’re wearing, though you might not agree with that when you’re getting ready to leave.

This is the first installment of a three-part series (Read Parts Two and Three here). Check back tomorrow for some strategies to use if things get awkward during your date!